Mexico City is sinking by about 24 centimeters a year, according to satellite images released by NASA in late April 2026. This makes the Mexican capital one of the fastest-sinking large cities in the world.

Mexico City and nearby areas are home to about 22 million people. The city was built on land that was once a lake, and heavy groundwater pumping has lowered underground water levels for more than a century. Because of this, the ground has continued to sink over time.

Some historic buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, now lean to one side. The sinking is also damaging infrastructure such as the subway, drainage systems, drinking water systems, housing, and streets. In some places, including the main airport and the Angel of Independence monument, the ground is sinking by about 2 centimeters a month.

NASA estimates are based on data collected between October 2025 and January 2026 by NISAR, a satellite project developed by NASA and the Indian Space Research Organization. The satellite can measure small changes on the Earth’s surface in real time from space.

Scientist Paul Rosen said the data helps researchers understand what is happening below the ground. Enrique Cabral, a researcher at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, explained that the information will help scientists and government officials better understand the problem and plan long-term solutions.